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High frequency continuous birefringence-induced oscillations in spin-polarized vertical-cavity surface-emitting
Optics Letters
|April 15, 2017
Summary
Researchers achieved sustained, high-amplitude oscillations in spin-vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (spin-VCSELs). The oscillation frequency, tunable via birefringence, exceeds traditional semiconductor laser limits for ultrafast applications.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Semiconductor Lasers
- Spintronics
Background:
- Spin-vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (spin-VCSELs) offer unique polarization dynamics.
- Controlling oscillation frequency is crucial for advanced laser applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate sustained, large amplitude, and tunable birefringence-induced oscillations in spin-VCSELs.
- To analyze the factors influencing these oscillations and their frequency.
Main Methods:
- Experimental investigation of a 1300 nm spin-VCSEL under continuous-wave optical pumping at room temperature.
- Numerical and stability analyses to understand the roles of pump ellipticity, spin relaxation rate, and cavity birefringence.
Main Results:
- Achieved sustained, large amplitude oscillations driven by birefringence.
- Demonstrated that oscillation frequency is determined by and tunable via the device's birefringence rate.
- Observed frequencies exceeding those of traditional semiconductor lasers.
Conclusions:
- Birefringence-induced oscillations in spin-VCSELs are a viable mechanism for generating ultrafast laser frequencies.
- Tunable, high-frequency operation opens possibilities for datacomms and spectroscopy.
- The study provides a pathway for developing record-frequency spin-lasers.